A pattern is an organised arrangement of the elements of design such as dots, lines, shapes, textures, colours etc. on a surface using any appropriate technique for decoration. Pattern making is an experimental process since the resultant designs cannot be predicted by the artist.

Patterns can be used as designs for paper bags, clothes, greeting cards, fringes, garlands or tassels, and pop-up. There are several techniques in pattern making. Examples of pattern making techniques are Sponging, Veining, Blowing, Spraying, Spattering, Stippling, String Pulling, Wax-resist/crayon batik, Marbling, Scribbling, Rubbing-in, Rubbing-out etc.

Sponging

This technique of pattern making involves the use of sponge as the principal tool for the creation of the patterns. The sponge can be laid or spread on the material (such as paper or cloth). The paint or ink is then dabbed with foam at the open areas of the sponge. The paint or ink can also be sprayed onto material after laying the sponge. The nett patterns or diamond shaped patterns of the sponge would appear on the material. Another technique is immersing the sponge in the paint or ink and rolling it on the material or paper to create the patterns.